Question

11. (p. 516) Which of the following is TRUE about the empty

nest syndrome?
A. Parents who live vicariously with their children do not
experience it.
B. It is more common for middle-aged men than for middleaged
women.
C. It is a common, though minor, problem for most middleaged
adults.
D. For most parents, marital satisfaction increases after the
transition to an empty nest.

Answer 1

The true statement about empty nest syndrome is that for most parents, marital satisfaction increases after their children have left home.

Step-by-step explanation:

Empty nest syndrome is a condition that may affect middle-aged parents when their children leave home. The question asks which statement is true regarding this syndrome. Looking into the family life cycle as theorized by Paul Glick and Evelyn Duvall, as well as examining general well-being as noted by Umberson, Pudrovska, & Reczek, we can infer that empty nest syndrome has varied impacts on different individuals.

The U.S. Census Bureau statistics also contribute to understanding societal shifts in family structure and overall child and parent well-being. Answering the multiple-choice question, the correct response would be option D: 'For most parents, marital satisfaction increases after the transition to an empty nest.' This occurs as parents may experience more freedom and opportunities to reconnect as a couple, potentially leading to increased marital satisfaction.